Starved Rock State Park stands as a unique natural wonder within Illinois, a true Rock Park experience unlike any other in the state. Famous for its stunning seasonal waterfalls, particularly vibrant in spring and after substantial rainfall, this Illinois gem boasts 13 miles of scenic trails perfect for exploration. The Illinois River adds to the park’s allure, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and simply enjoying the breathtaking vistas and tranquil spots for relaxation.
Starved Rock State Park welcomes visitors daily from 7 am until sunset.
The Visitor Center is open daily from 9 am to 4 pm, though it’s closed on Federal and State holidays from November through February. However, restrooms remain accessible until 5 pm. For those interested in learning more about the park’s rich history, geology, and ecology, the movie theater within the Visitor Center is open daily from 9 am to 4 pm, with the last viewing at 3:30 pm and videos available upon request. To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit, please adhere to marked trails and all park regulations. Click Here to see the TRAIL MAP
Click here to see the 2025 Event Calendar Upcoming Events:
Throughout the year, Starved Rock Park hosts a variety of engaging events, including:
- National Trails Day (first Saturday of June)
- Junior Ranger Day (June 28, 2025)
- Falltober Fest (3rd Saturday in October)
- Ghosts of Starved Rock’s Past (last Saturday in October)
- Night Hikes (March, June, and September)
- Eagle Watch Weekend (January 25 & 26, 2025)
Click here to explore Free Park Programs and Field Trips
Click here to learn more about the Starved Rock Foundation
Illinois Department of Natural Resources: Stewards of Illinois Rock Parks
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) diligently manages all state parks in Illinois, including not only Starved Rock State Park but also the nearby Matthiessen State Park and Buffalo Rock State Park.
Delving into the History of this Iconic Rock Park
The name “Starved Rock” is steeped in Native American legend, a tale dating back to the 1760s. Chief Pontiac of the Ottawa tribe, while attending a tribal council meeting with the Illinois and Pottawatomie, was tragically stabbed by an Illinois-Peoria brave. This act ignited a fierce vengeance among Pontiac’s followers, leading to a major battle. Fearing for their lives, the Illinois tribe sought refuge atop the imposing rock formation. After days of siege, those who remained on the rock succumbed to starvation, giving this landmark rock park its evocative name – Starved Rock.
The land encompassing present-day Starved Rock State Park was purchased in 1835 by Daniel Hitt from the U.S. Government as compensation for his military service. In 1890, Ferdinand Walther acquired the land, envisioning its potential for recreation. He developed the area into a vacation destination, complete with a hotel, dance pavilion, and swimming facilities. Recognizing its natural and historical significance, the State of Illinois purchased the site in 1911, establishing it as the state’s first recreational park, preserving this unique rock park for generations to come. During the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps established three camps at Starved Rock State Park, undertaking the construction of the Lodge and the extensive trail systems that visitors enjoy today.
Starved Rock State Park’s historical importance was formally recognized in 1966 when it was designated a National Historic Landmark. Further solidifying its place in history, the Starved Rock State Park Lodge and Cabins were added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places on May 8, 1985, as part of the Illinois State Park Lodges and Cabins Thematic Resources Multiple Property Submission. This designation highlights the enduring legacy of this remarkable rock park.
Hiking Adventures in a Premier Rock Park
Starved Rock is a hiker’s paradise, offering an immersive experience within a unique rock park landscape.
Fall colors in LaSalle Canyon at Starved Rock State Park
Scenic view of LaSalle Canyon, a highlight of Starved Rock's trails
Spring bluebells blooming along the trails in Starved Rock Park
Guided hikes offered at Starved Rock State Park
Iconic rock formations at Starved Rock State Park
Springtime in a Starved Rock canyon, showcasing the park's geological beauty
Wildcat Overlook in autumn, a stunning viewpoint within the rock park
Explore 13 Miles of Trails and 18 Unique Canyons
With 13 miles of trails winding through 18 distinctive canyons, Starved Rock offers endless opportunities for exploration. We encourage visitors to return throughout the year, as the park transforms dramatically with each season. The canyons and trails present entirely different vistas in the fall and winter compared to the lush greenery of spring and summer.
For your safety and to preserve the park’s natural beauty, please stay on designated trails at all times. PracticeLeave No Trace principles by removing everything you bring into the park. Swimming, wading, and rock climbing are prohibited within the park boundaries. Enjoy your hike and explore safely within this exceptional rock park.
Download Printable Map
Visitor Center: Your Gateway to Rock Park Adventures
The Visitor Center Welcomes You Daily from 9 am to 4 pm
Begin Your Rock Park Adventure Here
Visitor Center Hours & Contact Information
The Visitor Center is open daily from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. The park itself is open from 7:00 am to sunset daily. Trailheads Concessions operates daily from 10 am to 5 pm, and public restrooms are available daily. Please note that the Visitor Center is closed on State & Federal Holidays.
Click here for more details about Starved Rock State Park.
Explore Matthiessen State Park, another nearby Illinois gem.
For inquiries, contact the Park Office at (815) 667-4726.
Visitor Center Events:
Access the IDNR Calendar of Events for upcoming activities.
Camping Amidst the Beauty of a Rock Park
Ottawa Canyon campsite, showcasing the camping experience at Starved Rock
Photo by Jacki Musser
133 Premium Class-A Campsites Await
Starved Rock Campground offers 133 Class-A premium campsites, each equipped with electricity. The campground provides a bathhouse with showers and flush toilets for your convenience. Campers appreciate the park’s layout, featuring open grassy areas ideal for tent pitching, set against the backdrop of scenic beauty and abundant wildlife. Most campsites include standard 20-amp electrical plugins, along with 30-amp camper hookups. A limited number of sites also offer 50-amp hookups for larger travel trailers. Click here to reserve your campsite or learn more.
Click here for CAMPING RESERVATIONS
Campground Brochure: Plan Your Rock Park Camping Trip
Find all essential information about the campground in the brochure.
Download
Campground Store: Essentials for Your Rock Park Stay
Firewood Available Around the Clock
The Campground Store is open on Fridays and Saturdays. Firewood vending remains accessible 24/7 (credit & debit cards accepted).
When open, the campground store stocks a comprehensive range of camping supplies, including firewood, ice, batteries, marshmallows, and rain gear. You can also find maps, brochures, and helpful information about the Starved Rock Lodge area. The Campground Store is conveniently located within the Starved Rock Campground, just off Route 71.
Picnics in a Picturesque Rock Park Setting
Picnic area at Starved Rock State Park, perfect for outdoor meals
Day visitors can enjoy designated picnic areas equipped with tables and restroom facilities. Eight shelters are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please be aware that alcohol is prohibited in the picnic area from January 1 through May 31 and is always prohibited on the trails. Groups of 25 or more should contact the Visitor Center prior to their visit. Kindly note that COVID-19 restrictions may be in effect.
Frequently Asked Questions About Starved Rock Park
Frequently Asked Questions sign at Starved Rock State Park, helping visitors plan their trip
For answers to common queries about Starved Rock State Park & Lodge, trails, canyons, and the campground, please click below.
Learn More
